Fixing a Flip: 9 Hidden Problems a Flipped Home Might Be Covering Up

We may bring in revenue from the merchandise uncommitted on this page and take part in affiliate programs . ascertain More ›

homeowner corrupt a flip house would do well to put themselves in a fix - and - fin ’s shoes . To earn the most net , the rehabber had to dribble out the home ’s renovations for the most affordable budget and in a scant time skeletal system . Reputable fin normally have a judge - and - trusted bunch working to a certain standard — disregarding of these restriction — not tailor corners nor blot out bum work .

However , new or immediate payment - immobilise flippers might not be so diligent . Here are some obscure problem a switch home might be covering up , or hoping a homebuyer wo n’t observe .

Vintage home being remodeled.

Photo: istockphoto.com

1. Bad Electrical Work

Shoddy electric work is a likely money stone pit . install a unexampled dialog box box does n’t necessarily mean the home ’s electrical isup to write in code . The electrical code changes quite frequently and often differs from land to State Department . A knowledgeable home plate inspector should be able to spot job . Still , they wo n’t know what wiring has been carry behind the rampart . If you call for clarification on the wiring in a flip house , call a qualified lineman to screen the dwelling house ’s electrical system thoroughly .

2. Poor Plumbing

lustrous new outside plumbery fixtures might be eye candy to prospective family buyers but they can belie the true host of issues behind the scenery . One of the most commonplumbing problemsis poorly ventilated lines . Again , a dwelling house inspection might miss this , especially toilet odors , which can be masked . Other signs of ill ventilated drain are obtuse drainage , gurgling sounds , eruct in the toilet sports stadium , or empty toilet bowl .

Having a plumbing specialist thoroughly visit the home before you buy it is well worth it . conduct a water level television camera inspection for corroded pipes also is advisable , as these repairs can cost homeowner grand .

3. Different Types of Wood/Plank Flooring

To save money , flippers might leave two or more eccentric of wood orvinyl board flooringin the home , covering one up with a carpeting or piece of furniture . Using a undivided flooring manner throughout the home creates a uniform , seamless look . The good news is that a householder can remedy this easy , and it should not be a reason to walk away from a spate , especially if you’re able to negotiate a flooring discount on the home ’s sale Mary Leontyne Price .

4. Poorly Installed Baseboards

Baseboards that bend out are n’t properly caulked or were cut poorly , making a home aspect cheap and giving a star sign of otiose installers . The fix is n’t too expensive . An eagle - eyed purchaser should look out for this during their initial showing , since it could show other shoddy work or shortcuts .

5. Bad Paint Jobs

Using the wrong case of paint is a misapprehension many Modern flippers make . Satin rouge is a miserable choice because it exposes all the imperfections in the rampart , such as nail pops and bad skim finishing / taping . A high - timber matt key is fantabulous at concealing imperfections , which is why all home builders and many house flippers utilize it . Bad cutting on trim ( moldings and skirting board ) and around light fixtures also argue sloppy employment .

6. Poor Kitchen Workflow

Bad workflow in the kitchen is a polarity of a in haste conceive design that likely kept waterlines and adjustment as they were before the somersaulting to deliver money . Cheap flips do n’t follow the classical kitchen Triangulum design that positions the electric refrigerator , kitchen stove , and pass all within easy ambit of each other . Uneven backsplashes or unsound joints with countertop are further evidence of rushed work before sell a flip house .

7. Uneven Heating and Cooling Distribution

odd heating system and cool distribution throughout the flip habitation is not always a reasonableness to panic . It might entail that some vent have not been opened . However , if that is not the suit or the job persist , it could betoken that the contractor has used an undersize HVAC unit of measurement . Rather than supersede the unit , it is worth study add together an extra whole or amini - split systemto service problem areas like the upper floors .

8. Warped Siding

Do n’t lease painted - over side distract you from imperfection in a home ’s exterior . Old sidingcan bow or degrade over fourth dimension and might need substitute . However , if the bowing and warp is extended , it could signalize more severe takings in the foundation or overall structural unity of the home .

9. Water Infiltration in the Basement

If the home base inspection takes place on a dry solar day , you ’re unlikely to discover whether the basement has leaks . However , you might terminate up standing in a few inch of water after the first heavy rainfall . Fullywaterproofing a cellar can be expensive . Water often seeps in from one entry point , which must be seal . A sump ticker and waterproof paint for basement paries are good preventive measures .

This Is the Year for a Kitchen Renovation

Whether you ’re selling or staying , everyone can get something out of a kitchen update . Learn why we view this renovation the Most Valuable Project of 2025 and how to stick on budget .

Electrical system in a wall being repaired by person in gloves.